Pivoting Camper Van Window Structure for Leak-Safe Ventilation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window constructions for mobile homes and motorhomes are time-consuming to install, provide limited air exchange and daylight, and are prone to leaks, requiring costly replacements over time.

Innovation Solution

A window construction featuring a pivotable, tempered glass window pane with an integrated frame and insect protection device, utilizing a gas pressure spring for easy opening and adjustable locking elements to ensure a secure seal, allowing for improved air exchange and daylight entry while preventing insect intrusion and weather exposure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If vent windows are installed in existing exterior walls, then air circulation is enabled, but installation becomes time-consuming and complex due to precise fitting requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveair circulationVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The window system is divided into separate modular components: a fixed outer frame that attaches to the vehicle wall, and a separate movable window assembly that can be independently installed and removed. This segmentation allows the frame to be permanently secured while the window portion remains easily replaceable, simplifying installation and maintenance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The outer frame is pre-assembled with all necessary mounting features, seals, and hardware before installation on the vehicle. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the frame is installed on the vehicle wall, it requires minimal adjustment and no complex fitting procedures, significantly reducing installation time and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If opening window panes are added to enable air exchange, then air circulation improves, but the window structure becomes more complex and prone to leaks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveair exchangeVSAvoidwindow structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The window pane is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to open for air circulation and close for sealing. The dynamic capability is enabled by pivot mounting and gas pressure springs, which provide smooth operation without requiring complex mechanical linkages or control systems, maintaining structural simplicity while enabling air exchange.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Gas pressure springs are installed to automatically assist the window pane in opening and closing movements. These springs self-regulate the mechanical assistance provided, eliminating the need for motors, actuators, or complex linkage mechanisms, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Illumination intensity

If fixed glazing is replaced with opening windows, then air exchange and daylight entry improve, but installation time and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedaylight entryVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The window assembly is designed as a universal replacement system that can be installed in standard vehicle window openings without requiring custom fabrication. The modular design with pre-assembled frames and standardized mounting features allows the same window unit to be installed in multiple locations and on different vehicle types, significantly reducing installation time and cost while providing opening functionality for improved daylight and air exchange.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Simplifies installation, enhances air exchange and daylight entry, provides effective protection against insects and weather, and prevents leaks, reducing the need for costly replacements over time.

Implementation Method 1

The window construction comprises at least one gas pressure spring provided on the opening window pane

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGas pressure spring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

The locking element is designed such that, when the window pane is in the closed position, a predetermined or defined contact pressure is provided or can be ensured in the main window pane of the window construction against a circumferential seal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectContact pressure: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP4321359B1Window structure for a mobile home or camper van
Publication Date: 2024.05.22 BECK GEORG
  • EP4321359B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4321359B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4321359B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to a window construction (1, 1') for a motorhome or campervan, comprising: a main window pane (2) with an inner side (2a) facing into an interior of the motorhome or campervan and an outer side (2b) opposite this, a window opening (4) provided in the main window pane (2) and closable with an opening window pane (3), wherein the main window pane (2) and the opening window pane (3) are made of tempered or prestressed glass.